Raymond Michael Cole

The family of Raymond Michael Cole wish to announce his passing on April 20, 2026, after a mercifully short battle with pancreatic cancer. Born December 26, 1957, in San Pedro California, Ray lived a full life. He is survived by the love of his life, his wife Tarnapa-May (Tammy) Cole, his daughter Twyla May Cole, both of Stella, NC, his son Kevin Michael Cole of Columbus, Ohio; his mother Enid Cole, brothers Gary and Richard Cole, and sister Cynthia Cole of Havelock and Jacksonville NC.

Ray, a graduate of Havelock High School, moved to Hawaii in 1978, where he met his wife Tammy and married her in California in June of 1990. His passion was the ocean, loving to surf and go on long walks with his wife and family. He loved taking pictures of God’s great Earth and the beauty of sunrises, sunsets and this garden he was privileged to live in. His love for God, family and a life of service is his legacy.

His career in Construction, General Contracting and Project Management spanned nearly 36 years, and became a master carpenter. In the early years, he partnered with his brother, Frank who was an architect to build numerous houses and buildings on both Oahu and Hawaii. One of his best memories was his work on the Mauna Loa Observatory, working in the snow in the morning and catching waves in the evening. He served as a supervisor and project manager for many projects across southern California until he transferred to Colorado to work at a growing Denver International Airport. His crowning achievement was building a mountain home in Crystola, Colorado near the base of Pikes Peak.

The family returned to California to care for Tammy’s parents. In 2020, the family returned to North Carolina to care for his parents and retire and became members of One Harbor Church enriching his Faith in Jesus.

A celebration of life will occur soon. The family wishes to thank all who have offered support and prayers.